The Asia Direct Cable (ADC) submarine cable, the largest in Vietnam, has officially commenced operations as of early April 2025, marking a significant milestone in the country’s telecommunications landscape. Managed by Viettel Networks, this state-of-the-art cable boasts a remarkable capacity of 50 terabits per second (Tbps), which is 125% of Vietnam's total international connection capacity prior to the ADC's launch.
Stretching approximately 9,800 kilometers, the ADC connects Vietnam to six other countries and territories: China, Hong Kong (China), Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, and Japan. This extensive network not only enhances connectivity but also strengthens Vietnam’s position in the global telecommunications arena.
With a total investment of around 290 million USD, the ADC project was realized through collaboration among nine leading telecommunications companies, including Viettel (Vietnam), Softbank (Japan), Tata (India), and Singtel (Singapore), among others. Notably, Viettel is the sole investor from Vietnam in this ambitious project, which has been designed to bolster both international connectivity and domestic digital infrastructure.
One of the standout features of the ADC is its direct connection to three major Internet hubs in Asia—Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan. This strategic advantage allows for improved data transfer speeds and reliability, catering to the increasing demand for high-speed internet services and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and big data.
As Viettel Networks utilizes a portion of the ADC's capacity to enhance its international connectivity, the company aims to meet the evolving data needs of its customers and improve their overall internet experience. The ADC is not just about speed; it is also a critical component in ensuring network security and redundancy. In the event of disruptions to existing submarine cables, the ADC will provide a vital backup, safeguarding Vietnam’s internet connectivity.
In line with its broader strategy, Viettel Networks is committed to developing the largest and most modern digital infrastructure in Vietnam. This includes leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as cloud computing, IoT (Internet of Things), and advanced data analytics. The ADC's capabilities align perfectly with these goals, positioning Vietnam as a competitive player in the digital economy.
Looking ahead, the Vietnamese government has set ambitious targets for the development of its international fiber optic cable system. The "Strategy for Developing Vietnam's International Fiber Optic Cable System to 2030, Vision to 2035" aims to deploy at least ten new submarine cable routes by 2030, which will increase the total number of submarine cables to a minimum of fifteen with a combined capacity of at least 350 Tbps.
This strategic plan includes the deployment of four new submarine cable routes by 2027 and at least six additional routes from 2028 to 2030. By 2035, the goal is to position Vietnam's international fiber optic cable system among the leaders in the region, not just in terms of quantity, but also in capacity and quality. This will attract investment and foster the establishment of large data centers and cloud computing service providers.
As the ADC begins its operations, it symbolizes a significant leap forward for Vietnam's digital infrastructure, enhancing not only connectivity but also the potential for economic growth and technological advancement. The ADC’s launch is a clear indication of Viettel's commitment to leading the way in digital innovation and connectivity in Vietnam.
In conclusion, the successful operationalization of the Asia Direct Cable marks a transformative moment for Vietnam's telecommunications sector, promising improved internet services and a stronger digital economy. With the ADC in place, Vietnam is better equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving digital landscape, ensuring that it remains competitive on the global stage.
